Robbie Rogers: Gay Soccer Player Makes Historic L.A. Galaxy Debut

A win for progress! Robbie Rogers made history as he entered the match between the Los Angeles Galaxy and the Seattle Sounders during the 77th minute on May 26. Watch the video.

Robbie Rogers, 26, became the first active openly gay male athlete to compete in a U.S. professional team sport as he entered the game as a substitute for the L.A. Galaxy.

Robbie Rogers: Gay Soccer Player Makes L.A. Galaxy Debut — HISTORY Is Made

Robbie, like NBA player Jason Collins, came out in a personal note in February. However, Robbie used his personal website as opposed to publishing a letter in Sports Illustrated. In the same letter, Robbie said he would be stepping away from the game. But with a smile on his face, Robbie stepped back onto the field on May 26. And his return was welcomed with a loud cheer.

The L.A. Galaxy won the match with a 4-0 finish. After the historic game, Robbie chose to focus on his team’s performance rather than his monumental debut.

“The most important thing is today we got three points. This was a huge game for us. It’s a Western Conference game. The guys just played amazing. Robbie was clinical in front of goal and it was a pleasure to watch. They made it easy for me,” Robbie told ESPN during a postgame interview.

Robbie Rogers Welcomed With Warm Reception

Before the game, Jason sent Robbie a good luck tweet. He said, “Good luck tonight @robbierogers and @ToddDunivant #LAgalaxy Send @TaylorGraham26 and Seattle Sounders home with a loss #Support #HomeTeam.”